What's more beautiful than a work in progress?

Tag: college

I’m currently sitting and waiting for my very dear friend to come out from the back of my alma mater’s 2018 Commencement Ceremony. It’ll be three years since my graduation next week and I can barely remember how it felt to graduate other than almost falling before I got to stage because I was rushing to put on lip gloss at the last minute (Typical Art behavior). So, here I am, taking in what I did over 3 years ago. It feels a little surreal honestly, even after such a long time of being out of school.

It’s quite amazing what the human does without thinking. We eat, laugh, sleep and even graduate without completely conceptualizing the very act of what we’re doing. Our 20’s seem to be about completing a goal and moving to the next thing that we’re supposed to complete without ever actually appreciating what we’ve just completed. It’s like our story always ends in coming soon and never in a reflective time to think about what has already been done. So, here I am, three years later taking in what I should’ve taken in so long ago. I freaking graduated from college and worked my butt off!

It makes me sad to sit here and see people get their rewards for working so hard and realizing that I just saw this day as a stepping stone and not a real prize. I should’ve cherished it more. Instead, I fell into the same trap of trying to figure out what to do next because something done is never enough. It’s always a “next step” because we have to move forward right? But what’s the point of moving forward without celebrating what it took you to get here in the first place?

So, celebrate your wins as they occur. Don’t be afraid to enjoy the now before looking for the next. You’re right here and deserve all your applause. Hell, even ask for more applause if you need to. It’s okay to celebrate. You accomplished something so great, don’t let what’s next diminish that away. No matter what you accomplished, remember YOU completed something. Gas yourself up and enjoy your moment.

Signed,

ART Undone

Hello, I’m ART!

Hello, I'm Alena! I am a 25-year-old navigating through life always looking for the silver lining. On any given day you can find me binge-watching The Office, painting, getting on a flight, dancing alone in the kitchen, trying new restaurants or taking a nap. ART Undone is all about finding beauty in this journey we call life. I hope this blog motivates you, makes you laugh, gives you life or even helps you procrastinate every once in a while. Thanks for taking the time to glance into my studio as I paint my masterpiece!